Pune: Untreated Sewage Discharge in Hinjawadi IT Park Triggers Crackdown by MIDC, PMRDA and MPCB
Hinjawadi, 6th June 2026: Authorities have launched a major crackdown on companies and housing societies in the Rajiv Gandhi Infotech Park, Hinjawadi, after discovering that untreated sewage was being discharged directly into stormwater drains.
The violations came to light during pre-monsoon infrastructure works, prompting action by the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC), Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA), and Maharashtra Pollution Control Board (MPCB).
According to officials, several residential societies and commercial establishments in Phase II of the IT park were found releasing sewage into stormwater channels instead of treating it through Sewage Treatment Plants (STPs). Authorities suspect that many STPs in the area are either non-functional or not being operated in accordance with prescribed norms.
The issue surfaced during ongoing stormwater drain improvement works near the Dohler company premises. MIDC had expedited pre-monsoon works following severe waterlogging reported in the IT park last year, particularly in the vicinity of the Dohler facility. During cleaning and repair operations, officials observed black, foul-smelling wastewater flowing through drains designated exclusively for rainwater.
MIDC has issued notices to the concerned housing societies and companies, directing them to immediately stop discharging untreated sewage into stormwater drains. Officials warned that failure to comply could result in legal action under applicable environmental laws.
The contaminated discharge has also raised serious concerns about the health and safety of sanitation workers engaged in drain-cleaning operations. MIDC Executive Engineer Rajendra Totla said workers have expressed reluctance to enter the drains due to the hazardous conditions created by the polluted water.
Authorities further noted that the sewage-contaminated water eventually flows into agricultural land falling under PMRDA jurisdiction. Farmers in the area have reportedly lodged complaints alleging that the pollution is affecting their fields and crops.
PMRDA Chief Engineer Shivprasad Bagdi said sewage treatment is mandatory for all housing societies and commercial establishments. He stated that multiple complaints regarding the illegal discharge of sewage into stormwater drains had been received and that the matter had been referred to the Maharashtra Pollution Control Board for further action.
Meanwhile, MPCB Regional Officer Babasaheb Kukde said an inspection drive has been launched across the IT park to assess the functioning of sewage treatment plants. The board will conduct detailed inspections of companies and residential complexes, and strict action will be taken against entities found violating pollution-control norms.
With the monsoon approaching, authorities are aiming to prevent environmental damage, safeguard public health, and ensure that stormwater drainage systems function efficiently during periods of heavy rainfall.
